HSBC has just been granted planning permission to proceed with internal and minor external renovation to the branch at the bottom of Fargate, including new windows and doors, new external cash machines and a new entrance. Nothing that will drastically change the look of the building though unfortunately):

The coles' corner building has been shit the whole of my life. When you look at the original Cole Brothers' apartment store on the site which was demolished in the 60s it was a far more attractive construction, although probably poorly layed out inside. It would be much better if it was made into a larger store with several floors for a more prestigious retailer. It is an iconic position and deserves much better status than assorted uses.
When I see its smooth sides I wonder if it could have a massive neon sign on like piccadilly circus in London.

My Mum worked in Cockaynes department store during the 1960s and apparently the place was terrible inside, the store rooms were like catacombs with low ceilings in the basement and a terrible state. This store I remember as Scofields during my childhood and Later Wing Price. I haven't noticed it for years though, it is in the block between the Bankers draft pub and the tunnel through to heartshead. Probably a pound shop now!